Do you know what it’s like to feel hangry? (hungry/angry) I think that most people have experienced that at one point or another.
Today I’m sharing some steps that you can use the next time you’re experiencing hunger as an emergency. By doing so, you can stay rational and not end up feeling bad for actions that you took while you were ravenous. Believe it or not, hunger does not have to be an emotional experience, and the less emotional you can make it, the better off you’ll be.
The 8 Steps in Today’s Episode:
1. Acknowledge that you’re hungry.
Acknowledge that it’s slightly uncomfortable but and that it’s normal for the feeling of hunger to happen. Remember that hunger also comes in waves. If you can keep calm for about 10-20 minutes without letting ravenous behavior take over, then you’re likely to feel a little more in control.
2. Slow down for a second and pay attention.
Are you really, physically hungry? Why are you eating? Are you bored, procrastinating, or having other emotional issues that you’re trying to drown with food?
3. Relax. Don’t panic.
Unless you’ve been lost in the desert without food for days, this is not an emergency. You might just be feeling an adrenaline dump that was triggered by something else. Breathe. You’re OK.
4. Rank your discomfort on a scale of 1 to 10.
1 is feeling perfectly content. 10 is feeling like eating tree bark would really hit the spot. If what you’re feeling is a 6 or less, relax. You can deal with this.
5. Where do you feel hunger:
Head? Heart? Stomach? Chest? Throat? Have you ever thought about it? Even if you haven’t, you probably know what I’m talking about right? I’m sure you can easily guess which one is the real physical hunger that’s not attached to emotions. Next time you feel “hungry” try to get into the habit of pausing and identifying where you’re feeling this supposed hunger. This is one starting point for regaining more awareness and connection to your body.
6. Take an extra 30 seconds to ask yourself:
What would be the best, most self-aware, most self-loving choice that I could eat under these particular circumstances? (notice I didn’t say perfect)
7. As well as you can, make that thoughtful choice.
Eat slowly, chew your food thoroughly and pause after each bite.
8. Check in.
Notice your body signals. How would you rank your hunger now that you’ve had a bite or two to eat?
Questions, thoughts or comments?
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The information shared is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be interpreted as an intent to diagnose, treat, cure, heal or prescribe.